Sloths, unicorns and science. Toy makers know how kids want to learn and play. Check out the toys below and click here to find more gift ideas for other ages in our 2018 Holiday Gift Guide.
ENTER TO WIN: Toy packages from our 2018 Holiday Gift Guide!
Creativity for Kids Sequin Pets, $24.99
In case there’s any worry about everyone opening the same toy at the holidays, Sparkles the Unicorn comes with felt “stickers” to add glasses, pizza or a rainbow for a little dazzle and individuality.
Available at: Becky & Me Toys, Building Blocks Toys, *play and Moore Toys & Gadgets
Horizon Jelly Squoosh-o’s, $9.99
This DIY takes the fun of stress balls and turns it into a craft. The expanding water beads make for extra-sensory fun.
Available at: Building Blocks Toys
Codeverse Winter Camp
Give the gift of coding with Codeverse Winter Camp for kids aged 6-13 at our state-of-the-art coding studio in Lincoln Park and Naperville!
Book your camp now.
SPONSORED BY Codeverse
Toysmith Grow Sloth, $7
They’re cute, they’re slow and they have videos on YouTube of how adorable they eat. Now your kiddo can grow his or her own sloth, watching it emerge from its tree “home.”
Available at: Becky & Me Toys, Building Blocks Toys and Moore Toys & Gadgets
Diggin Slimeball Light Glove, $29.99
The biggest thing parents hate about the great slime movement is when it sticks to the walls, the carpet, the walls. Slimeball lets your slime lover run with glowing, no-mess slime to throw at (also glowing) targets.
Available at: Building Blocks Toys and Moore Toys & Gadgets
"The Wizard of Oz" at Paramount Theatre
Follow the yellow brick road to "The Wizard of Oz." There’s no place like Paramount to make memories with your little munchkins this holiday season. "The Wizard of Oz" plays at Paramount Theatre from Nov. 14 to Jan. 6.
Get your tickets today.
SPONSORED BY Paramount Theatre
Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty neon, $19.99
Crazy Aaron’s is a fidget putty that doesn’t stick, doesn’t dry and doesn’t wear out. It’s the thinking kid’s Thinking Putty, and this holiday season comes in a mini-kit with neon colors, bright enough to match every personality.
Available at: Building Blocks Toys, *play and Moore Toys & Gadgets
Fat Brain Ribbon Ninja, $19.99
Looking for an answer to cabin fever? Three ribbons per ninja player mean extra chances to dodge, snatch, move and exercise indoors. Think flag football, without the ball or the damage to the walls.
Available at: *play and Moore Toys & Gadgets
Cosley Zoo’s Festival of Lights and Tree Sale & Santa’s Craft Corner
Make a winter visit to Cosley Zoo—a family tradition! See thousands of twinkling lights, purchase a Christmas tree or make a craft with Santa.
Plan your visit today.
SPONSORED BY Cosley Zoo
Brio Pinball, $49.99
Instead of the pounding and tapping on the side of a room-sized machine, this hand-held pinball game teaches the basics to turn your novice into a wizard.
Available at: Becky & Me Toys and *play
Learning Resources Beaker Creatures, $25.99
Budding scientists can mix two substances together for a creature to appear. Lots of creatures to discover, so multiple mixes are on the horizon.
Available at: Becky & Me Toys and Moore Toys & Gadgets
Check out more ideas in our 2018 Holiday Gift Guide!
This article originally appeared in the November 2018 issue of Chicago Parent. Read the rest of the issue.
